A Fascinating Introduction to Kurobe Gorge
There are many famous spots in Japan that are overflowing with tourists, but sometimes you want to avoid the crowds and find a quiet place in nature where you can refresh your mind. My recent visit to the Kurobe Gorge Railway trolley car is a hidden gem that fulfills such a wish. Located in Toyama Prefecture, this gorge is an area of deep canyons and lush greenery, and a minor spot recommended for foreign travelers; a Google Maps search shows a route that starts from Unazuki Station, and TripAdvisor’s reviews rate it as “perfect for adventure lovers. The canyon is located in the Northern Alps. This gorge forms part of the Northern Alps, and the scenery of steep cliffs and clear streams is breathtaking. A ride on the trolley train will take you back in time.
My Kurobe Gorge Torokko Tram Experience
When I visited Toyama last month, I gathered information on TripAdvisor and tried the Kurobe Gorge Railway’s trolley car. The 20-km journey from Unazuki Station to Keyakidaira Station is a great attraction with the views from the open carriages. As soon as we departed, we felt the thrill of peering into the deep valley floor of the gorge, and the sensation of the wind caressing our faces was pleasant. On the way, we stopped at Kanetsuri Station and Kuronagi Station and enjoyed walking around the area. Especially near the Kuronagi Hot Springs, we relaxed while listening to the murmuring of the river. On the train, the local guide’s explanations were available in English, which made it safe for foreigners. Through this experience, I was touched by the grandeur of nature and felt refreshed. If you are looking for adventure, I recommend booking in advance. During off-peak season, it is empty and you can enjoy it in a relaxed atmosphere.
Kurobe Gorge’s Hidden Attractions and How to Get There
The trolley car is not the only attraction of Kurobe Gorge. Once you arrive at Zelkova-daira Station, it is recommended to explore the hiking trails in the area. For example, the oddly shaped rocks called Hitokui-iwa (human-eating rocks) and the Oku-Kanayama waterfall are photo-worthy spots, and according to TripAdvisor reviews, many people rave about the “great sense of mystery” in the area. To get there, take a bus or train from Toyama Station to Unazuki Onsen Station. From there, transfer to the trolley car. The Japan Guide website provides detailed maps for foreigners. More and more people are visiting while sightseeing in Toyama, but it is still minor, so you can avoid the crowds. Summer is the season of bright green and autumn is the season of beautiful autumn leaves. In winter, the scenery is snowy, but please note that the operation is limited.
Nature Adventure Tasted on a Trolley Car
A trip on a trolley car is not just a ride, but a real adventure. There are two types of cars, covered and open, and I chose the open type to feel the wind. The moment we crossed the bridge across the canyon was a heart-pounding excitement. On the way, you can sometimes see monkeys, deer, and other wild animals, giving you a sense of oneness with nature. In my experience, it was a slightly rainy day, but that added to the mystical atmosphere. On a related note, if you search for “Toyama Kurobe Gorge” on Google Trends, “trolley car reservations” and “Kurobe Gorge hiking” often come up. It is a good idea to plan in advance with reference to these. In terms of safety, be careful if you are with children, as the route is on the edge of a cliff. But for adults, the thrill of the ride will turn into its charm.
Local Dining and Lodging Spots
After exploring the canyon, it is recommended to enjoy local gourmet food. In the Unazuki Onsen area, we tasted fresh river fish dishes at an Unazuki Onsen ryokan. In particular, the salted grilled rockfish was superb, reminiscent of the clear waters of the canyon; a quick search of TripAdvisor for popular restaurants will also reveal some minor cafes. For lodging, hotels with hot springs are convenient. The place I stayed had a relaxing view of the gorge from my room. Seafood from Toyama Bay can be enjoyed nearby, and as the trendy term “Toyama Sightseeing Gourmet” suggests, the area is loaded with local produce. This makes the trip more satisfying.
Tips for visiting Kurobe Gorge
A few Tips that we learned from our actual visit. First, check the weather and bring rain gear. The weather is changeable in the gorge. Second, online reservations for trolley tickets are smooth. You can avoid the crowds by choosing an early morning flight. Also, if you are going to hike, wear comfortable shoes. In my case, light trekking shoes helped. In the interest of environmental protection, take your trash with you. These small efforts will make your trip more comfortable. For foreign travelers, English brochures are available at train stations, so take advantage of them.
Private Wisdom-like Summary
The Kurobe Gorge trolley train trip was an experience of private wisdom away from everyday life. The power and serenity of nature leave a deep impression on the mind. Because it is a minor spot, an exclusive impression awaits you. Please visit this place for your next trip. This unexplored region is sure to inspire your sense of adventure.
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